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Saskatchewan Lakes: Adventure Awaits Despite Water Worries
18 Jul
Summary
- Water quality concerns like algae blooms and swimmer's itch affect Saskatchewan lakes.
- Province tests busy beaches weekly for E. coli and blue-green algae.
- Tips to prevent swimmer's itch include showering and drying off immediately.
Saskatchewan's beautiful lakes present both recreational opportunities and water quality challenges, including algae blooms and the common "swimmer's itch." Triathlon coach Carly Priebe notes the need to plan open water clinics around potential algae issues, which can produce harmful microcystins, a toxin resistant to boiling.
The province's Healthy Beaches Program actively monitors 47 busy beaches for contaminants like E. coli and blue-green algae. Testing occurs weekly or bi-weekly, with more frequent sampling if adverse results are found. An online map details test results, with recent reports indicating some beaches with elevated E. coli and blue-green algae levels.
"Swimmer's itch," caused by a parasitic flatworm, is another concern, particularly in shallow, plant-filled waters. Health officials recommend showering and thoroughly drying off immediately after swimming to prevent it. Cold compresses and antihistamines can alleviate symptoms if they develop. Despite these concerns, Priebe encourages embracing the adventurous spirit of lake swimming, noting that Saskatchewan's waters can be quite healthy compared to some urban environments worldwide.
